As many continue to struggle with a strained economy and soaring tuition, college students bear part of the financial burden. The hard times are demonstrated by a record number of financial aid applications received by the Jewish Community Foundation (JCF). “This year we did receive a record number of applications for our scholarships and loan program, most likely due to the rising education and cost-of-living expenses,” said Wendy Rosenblum, Associate Director of Development for Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

“The JCF is thrilled to administer these opportunities and provide almost $25,000 in support to students pursuing undergraduate and post-graduate educational opportunities.”

The scholarships and interest-free loans cover part of the students’ education, made possible through endowments administered by the JCF. The financial aid is awarded based on financial need, academic merit, involvement in extracurricular activities, and community service.

Winners for 2011-2012 are:

• L. Allen Zorensky Memorial Fine Arts Loan Fund: Dustin Kessler, Jonathan Levy, Stuart Portman, Joseph Weil. The loan is given to those pursuing a fine arts degree from a recognized institution or program.

• Blanche & Irving Miller Scholarship Fund: Zevadiah Dodge and Sarah Markenson. The scholarship is given to students enrolled in accredited colleges or universities pursuing degrees in professional fields such as law, medicine, journalism, and hospital administration.

• Sam A. Kessler Memorial Scholarship: Adam Schneider. The scholarship is granted to a local, qualified law school student.

• Richard L. Levis, Jr. Memorial Scholarship: Rebecca Wilhelm. The scholarship is granted to students pursuing higher education at a Missouri college or university.

Scholarships and loans are available to Jewish students though JCF endowments. For more information on these opportunities, or to learn about creating a new educational endowment, visit www.jcf-stl.org/scholarships.html or call Wendy Rosenblum at 314-442-3740.